"The Paso Robles Wine Country was built by pioneers," said Dennis Collins, grower and Paso Robles Vintners and Growers Association (PRVGA) Board Member. "We are a forward-thinking community of business owners and skilled winemakers and growers. This earthquake has tested our spirit, but everyone I have talked to is open for business."

Although the images of the devastation of one block of the downtown area are disturbing, Collins cautions against believing that Paso Robles Wine Country is off-limits for visitors. "We have a resilient spirit here; some businesses are closed due to the earthquake, but most businesses are open and moving forward."

Collins said that the offers to help those affected by the earthquake have been overwhelming. "We have more offers for help than problems to deal with."

Members of the (PRVGA) are concerned about the community as a whole and are eager to move forward for two reasons," he said. "One, because businesses in Paso Robles Wine Country and members of the PRVGA rely on one another for their success. And two, they believe that the 2003 vintage is superb and they want to get back to it."

He continued, "While the community suffered much material loss, the people of Paso Robles Wine Country are relieved that there weren't more lives lost. These folks just want to get back to doing what they do best â€“ and thatâ€™s making world-class wine."

Paso Robles Wine Country is located halfway between Monterey and Santa Barbara, on Californiaâ€™s Central Coast. With a greater day-to-night temperature swings than any other appellation in California, Paso Robles Wine Country vines produce concentrated, yet balanced wines with intense varietal flavors. Paso Robles Wine Countryâ€™s 70+ wineries offer world-class wines in every varietal, created by winemakers with diverse international influences. For more information, visit pasowine.com.